They say any reintroduction would begin with a small number of lynx, with up to 20 being released gradually over several years.
Long-term monitoring via tracking collars and camera traps would be key, to track any negative impacts such as sheep predation, alongside benefits such as gains for biodiversity and tourism revenue.
Lisa Chilton chief executive of Scotland: The Big Picture said that Scotland had lost more of its native wildlife than almost any other country.
“Reintroducing lynx could help restore balance and breathe new life into Highland and Moray landscapes, but it would be essential to do this in a considered, responsible way that addresses questions and concerns”, she said.